'Holy Red' Basil, also known as 'Sacred Red' is a basil plantwith a long tradition of use in Ayurvedic medicine, and a well-known sacred plant of the Indian subcontinent. Amongherb plants, Holy Basil has been called the “Incomparable One”, the “Queen of Herbs” and “The Elixir of Life.”

Red Basil, also known as Krishna Tulsi, is a purplish-red strain of Tulsi, identical in growth and culture. to its verdant counterpart, Green Holy Basil. Both have spiritual and medicinal value and are sacred to Lord Vishnu, god of preservation. Used as a medicinal herb to prevent colds and flu, this sacred herb has the ability to cleanse the respiratory system of infection. The oil is used as an antioxidant, relieving aches and pains.

Basils are also potent natural pest repellents and wonderful companion plants, and can encourage nearby crops or repell mosquitoes and garden pests. Please read Briscoe's Tips for more growing information and for tips on using this dynamic herb.

Ocimum sanctum

Characteristics: Among our unusual basil plants that have become one of our most popular herb plants, thanks to our customers' suggestions! Holy Basil, a wonderful medicinal herb, has a distinctive anise-seed aroma, similar to Thai Basil. The slender leaves and hairy purplish stems and flower bracts give off a musky scent, described as having hints of cloves and mint. This basil makes a great container plant. And, as we understand it, has a very important place in Hindu culture. We are proud to grow this stately herb!

Tips for growing indoors:

Many of our customers grow their Holy or Sacred Basil plants indoors. Extra care must be taken to insure that you have success. Follow these tips to get the most out of your basil.

Light: Basil needs a lot of light. Place in a window that will allow at least 6 hours of sunlight, preferably facing south. Otherwise, these potted plants may need to be grown under fluorescent lights. With this type of lighting, basil plants will need about ten hours of light for healthy growth.

Fertilizer: When growing indoors, give it a shot of organic fertilizer at half strength to maintain pH levels.

Water: Basil is not tolerant of water stress; make sure pots provide adequate drainage.

Soil: Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. A soggy soil will lead to root rot.

Basils are also potent natural pest repellents and beneficial companion plants for your home and garden!

Basil is a wonderful plant to plant near your kitchen
windows or doorways, not just for its use in your favorite dishes, but because
this culinary herb has terrific natural pest repellent properties! Said to
effectively keep house flies and mosquitoes away, planting Basil near entryways
to your home, rubbing it on your skin and clothing, and planting it around your
yard and patio will help reduce the amount of unwanted summer pests. Planting
it in your garden will also keep destructive pests like Thrips, white flies,
and aphids away from neighboring plants. Basil blooms are also very attractive
to butterflies and other useful pollinators.

Basil is said to increase the health and flavor of many
vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, cabbage and especially tomato plants
when companion planted together. For
best results, do not plant Sage or Rue near your Basil, as this is said to
inhibit the plant’s growth and flavor. Instead, grow Chamomile near your Basil
plants to encourage its success.

Planting doesn't have to be a pain if you have the right pair of gloves! Our Atlas Gloves give you the dexterity of gardening barehanded, without the unsightly dirty nails.